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Jonathan Humphreys insists the pressure is not off Wales after a thrilling victory over Fiji increased hopes of a fourth successive Rugby World Cup quarter-final appearance.<\/p>\n
Wales\u2019 32-26 success came after they repelled a ferocious Fiji fightback that saw them score two tries during the last seven minutes.<\/p>\n
And had Fiji\u2019s star centre Semi Radradra not spilled possession with the line at his mercy just seconds from time, then it could have been a totally different outcome.<\/p>\n
Wales face remaining Pool C games against Portugal, Australia and Georgia, and the knockout phase is now undoubtedly in sight following a statement win.<\/p>\n
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\u201cThe big one for us is Portugal. We did well in a lot of areas, but there is still massive room for growth for us,\u201d Wales assistant coach and forwards specialist Humphreys said.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are not thinking anywhere close to what possibly could be. We know what\u2019s definitely going to be, and that is Portugal in a few days\u2019 time.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt is not an easy game, it is their first game in this tournament. They are a tough side to play against, they are very skilful.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe don\u2019t see this as pressure off. It is just the next game and we have to perform.\u201d<\/p>\n
Wales made more than 240 tackles in the game, with 71 of those attributed to just three players \u2013 lock Will Rowlands, prop Gareth Thomas and captain Jac Morgan.<\/p>\n
And that punishing defensive effort ultimately thwarted Fiji\u2019s attacking brilliance in a game that produced eight tries and no shortage of high-octane entertainment.<\/p>\n
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Humphreys added: \u201cYou can\u2019t make that many tackles if you are not fit and have the ability to get up and go again. The mindset and fitness was excellent.<\/p>\n
\u201cI don\u2019t think many people had probably given us a shot at that game, but we had a belief.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe knew to an extent what Fiji were going to bring, but it is still so hard to stop them. Their footwork is so late and so good, so we knew it was going to be an unbelievably tough game.<\/p>\n
\u201cBut to get through it with a bonus point is massive for us.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt was a hell of a relief at the end, but the next thing is Portugal. We need to play better, we need to be more accurate. That is the next focus for us.\u201d<\/p>\n
Rowlands was at the forefront, making 27 tackles and missing none as he delivered a performance that defined Wales\u2019 unflinching attitude in defence.<\/p>\n
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\u201cHe is an exceptional athlete,\u201d Humphreys said. \u201cIt is very rare you get such a big man who is such an athlete with such a big engine.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe has turned into a very important player for us. He came to rugby late \u2013 he was early 20s when he started playing rugby. He is brilliant around the group.\u201d<\/p>\n